Hurricanes are devastating weather events that affect millions of homeowners each year. In fact, according to EZ Home Search, over 32 million homes are at risk from hurricane wind damage. There are steps you can take before a hurricane hits to protect your home, though. Here are a few things to keep in mind.

Cover Your Windows

The glass in your home is the most vulnerable during a hurricane. That is why it’s very important to keep your windows covered before and during the storm. A hurricane shutters company can help you find window coverings that will add an additional layer of protection to your home. You can also have hurricane-tempered glass installed for your windows. This creates a much stronger barrier against high winds and debris. Tempered glass and hurricane shutters together are the best way to protect your windows.

Safeguard Your Roofing

During a hurricane, a roof can partially or completely blow off. Even if only a few shingles are blown away, it's still a risk you can mitigate, lest water leak through those gaps in the roof. You can protect against this threat by securing your roof with straps or clips. These fasten the roof to the home and give you a better chance of making it through the storm with your roof intact.

Secure Other Items

Other outdoor items are also at risk of damage or being blown away. This can include above-ground pools, trampolines, furniture, and decorations. Your smaller outdoor items need to be brought indoors if possible during the hurricane. Not only are these items at risk of being damaged or lost, but they can also pose a threat to other people’s property or cause injuries.

If you have an inground pool, you might want to consider submerging any waterproof items that you might have. This includes outdoor furniture, for example, a tanning chair or a metal patio chair. Beneath the water, the items can’t blow away or hurt anyone.

Follow Evacuation Instructions

Once you’ve done all you can to protect your home, you should follow evacuation instructions as given by your local authorities. Some homeowners feel that the only way to truly protect their homes is by staying in their homes during the storm. This is a very dangerous thing to do. You increase your chances of being harmed and complicating already stretched emergency services.

These are just a few things you can do to protect your home before a hurricane. No matter what, the most important thing is that you remain safe in the event of a hurricane. If you are looking for a hurricane shutters company to help you with products and services, please contact Zager Windows, Doors, and Shutters today.